HC Deb 16 June 1953 vol 516 cc709-10
12. Mr. Callaghan

asked the Minister of Works what reasons have led him to refuse permission for the building of a hall for St. Peter's Parish, Cardiff; and when he expects to be able to reverse his decision.

Sir D. Eccles

This proposed hall, as I understand it, is intended primarily for social and recreational purposes. Owing to the need to conserve building resources, I cannot license this work for the time being. I regret that I am unable to say when a licence is likely to be issued.

Mr. Callaghan

As the hall is needed for the life of the Catholic community in Cardiff and is of great importance, can the right hon. Gentleman give a date on which he can get his officials to propose some modified scheme which will enable a hall of this kind to be built?

Sir D. Eccles

I quite appreciate that the hall is very much needed, and I suppose that if a scheme for under £5,000 were put forward we should be able to look at it. But, as the building is classified as for recreational or social purposes, I am afraid that it comes under the £5,000 maximum.

Mr. Callaghan

If it were classified for any other purpose, would the Minister care to say what sort of purpose would bring it outside the limit?

Sir D. Eccles

Yes, if the hall was in fact a church it could be put before the Churches Committee and take its chance in competition with other churches and chapels in Wales.